1981 BMW 528 vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 528. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 528 would be higher. At 2,788 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 528 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 528 (181 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML. (161 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 528 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 855 kg more than 1981 BMW 528.
Because 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW 528. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML (377 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 528. (240 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 528.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 528 | 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 528 | ML |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2788 cc | 2601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 377 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 72 L |
